An Overview of Dog Cancer Treatment for Pet Owners

No dog owner wants to hear that their pet is suffering from cancer and requires treatment. In some cases, it simply cannot be helped. If your dog was recently given a diagnosis of cancer, and you are thinking about what to do next. In this article, we’ll describe the process of treating dogs who have cancer and assist pet owners in knowing what to expect.

Different Types of Cancer in Dogs

There are a variety of types of dog cancer, similar to humans. The first step you should take as a pet owner when you discover that your dog suffers from cancer would be to identify the kind of cancer. The most frequent types of dog cancers identified are:

• Lymphoma: A cancer that targets the lymphatic system, and it is among the most common types of dog cancer.
• Mast cell tumors: A type of skin cancer that may develop anywhere in the body.
• Osteosarcoma: A type of bone cancer normally found in the legs and typically seen in larger dog breeds.
• Melanoma: A severe form of skin cancer that can spread and grow to other parts of the body, including the eyes and mouth.
• Hemangiosarcoma: A blood vessel cancer that could cause damage to organs like the liver, spleen, and heart.

Various Ways to Treat Cancer in Dogs

When you know the type of cancer you’re facing, it is time to consider treatment options. Your vet or veterinary oncologist will determine the best course of action in your dog’s treatment based on the type of cancer as well as the specific condition. Below are three distinct methods that cancer is treated in dogs, which can be a great resource for understanding what to expect.

Surgery

Surgery could be a viable option to treat your dog’s cancer when they only have one tumor or if it is located in a small region. If the borders surrounding the tumor are free of cancer and the tumor is not spreading, many vets recommend surgery as the first treatment for dog cancer. In certain cases, a surgical operation is the only treatment option, while in others, it is done prior to or following chemotherapy or radiation. To learn more about surgical options for dog cancer, you can visit websites like https://www.matthews.carolinavet.com/site/specialties/surgery.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy can treat tumors originating from the blood cells, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and other fatal cancers. Your Carolina Vet Specialists in Matthews, NC will provide you with a prescription for a series of medications that can kill cancerous cells. The treatment for dogs who are suffering from cancer can last between six and 12 weeks. The chemotherapy medications can be administered orally at home or via an intravenous drip.

Radiation

Dogs with cancers whose tumors are difficult to treat surgically may benefit from this therapy. If you treat your dog’s cancer using radiation, a large dose is aimed at the affected area. The effect is to decrease the number of cancerous cells. The treatment can be administered to your dog between two and five times per week. Based on your dog’s type of cancer, the treatment plan could take up to six weeks.

Costs Associated with Cancer Treatment for Dogs

Treatment for cancer in dogs is expensive, which isn’t a surprise. Your veterinarian may recommend an option for treatment that could cost pet owners at least $10,000. For example, a specialist visit to determine the presence of cancer costs approximately $1500. The cost of radiation therapy and chemotherapy could range from $200 to $6000. It is clear that the cost of treatment is substantial. Fortunately, budget-friendly pet insurance can reduce this issue.

Final Thoughts

No matter what the breed or age, any dog is exposed to developing cancer. Even with the emotional burden, pet owners should be alert for any changes in their pets that could indicate cancer. Early cancer detection through regular veterinary exams dramatically enhances the chances of treatment and prognosis. The dogs diagnosed with cancer have hope of an extended and enjoyable life with their loved ones, provided they receive the highest quality treatment.